June 7, 2022
The shopping list every homeowner needs to make their JB jaunt worthwhile!
Ah, Johor Bahru. It’s no secret that Singaporeans would do anything to pinch a few pennies (yes, even if it means having to brave the notorious causeway jam). Despite the hassle of going through customs, many young couples still choose to cross the border to score some sweet home goods for their new BTO flats – thanks to its close proximity and affordability. But is it really worth the trip?
Source: Mi Kuang (left), Tampoi Lighting Centre Tampoi Lighting Centre (right)
Well, it will be if you've researched the stores beforehand. Luckily for you, we've done the legwork; here's a guide on where you can shop in JB to maximise your cross-border journey (and savings)!
Source: Tampoi Lighting Centre
Just a short drive away from the customs is Tampoi Lighting Centre. Touted as the go-to destination for affordable lamp and lighting solutions, this one-stop-shop offers everything from fancy chandeliers to contemporary pendant lights at downright competitive prices. What’s more, these folks are also the authorised retailer for esteemed lighting brands like Philips as well as ceiling fan brands like KDK and Fanco, so you don’t have to worry about authenticity either.
Address: 2, Jalan Titiwangsa 3/1, Taman Tampoi Indah, Johor Bahru
Tel: +60 7-241 8999
Source: Starworld Lighting
For a wider selection of designs, make a pitstop at the neighbouring Starworld Lighting that is located just a couple of blocks down the road. Founded back in 2003, this decades-spanning establishment has earned itself a solid reputation for its extensive range of outdoor and indoor lighting. Be sure to keep an eye out for flash and seasonal sales where you can grab great bargains on quality fixtures, ceiling fans, electrical appliances and more.
Address: 26-01, 28, 28-01, Jalan Titiwangsa 3/1, Taman Tampoi Indah, Johor Bahru
Tel: +60 16-713 1171
Source: KS Curtain Lifestyle
A local favourite, KS Curtain Lifestyle has grown from a small-town shop to a reputable curtain specialist with a dedicated customer base. What makes them a clear standout is their affordable range of curtains and blinds tailored for different styles, needs and budgets. Door-to-door service is available for those living in JB, but you can still pop by their store for a free quotation if you’re in the area!
Address: 11, Jalan Sentral 2, Taman Nusa Sentral, Johor Bahru
Tel: +60 17-763 6227
Source: Google Maps (top left), M Salim Curtain (top and bottom right)
M Salim Curtain & Carpet has a long history of providing a number of curtain designs, including french pleats, pencil pleats and even the iconic Singapore pleat (better known as the double pleat pattern). They also sell an extensive collection of residential carpets like persian, silk and your typical machine woven rugs.
Address: 12,14,16 & 18, Jalan Titiwangsa 3/2, Taman Tampoi Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor
Tel: +60 07-234 6658
Source: Mi Kuang
Although Mi Kuang is targeted towards the mass market, their products are locally designed and well-manufactured. They specialise in sought-after collections for the modern home — and you can find just about anything at an affordable price!
Most importantly, Mi Kuang also offers free delivery and installation of furniture items straight to Singapore with a minimum purchase of RM2,000 or more (for those wondering, that’s about SGD600!).
Source: Mi Kuang
That said, do be mindful that delivery to Singapore comes with a RM200 (approx. SGD60) customs documentation fee, as well as prevailing GST.
Address: 14, 16, 18, 20, Jalan Titiwangsa 3/1, Taman Tampoi Indah, 81200 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
Tel: +60 7-241 8888
Source: Boo Furniture
If you’re in the market for premium wood furnishings, look no further than Boo Furniture. Made with premium teak wood from Indonesia, these durably crafted pieces come in a myriad of design styles to meld in seamlessly into any interior – from minimalist to Scandinavian, mid-century to industrial.
Address: 11, Jalan Molek 3/20, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Bahru
Tel: +60 7-3508647
Source: Fella Urban (left and top right), Fella Design (bottom right)
Established in 1986, Fella Design has been selling affordable furniture for the living, dining and bedroom for many generations of Johor locals.
Their strongest selling point, though, is their unrivalled range of over 1,000 in-house and imported fabrics for you to choose from and match with over 100 sofas.
Address: No 2, Jalan Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Tel: +60 7-221 320
Source: Google Maps
Big Brain prides itself in sustainable sourcing of well-made and eco-friendly furniture. Their extensive catalogue consists of pieces that are all meticulously designed and made from the likes of durable rubberwood, teak wood, and American walnut.
Source: Big Brain
From retro mid-century to contemporary but timeless pieces, peruse through their premium and wide range of high quality chairs, consoles, benches and more by dropping by their showroom.
Address: G-02-03-05-06, Blok A, Persiaran Pertama, Off Jalan Danga Pertama, Pusat Perdagangan Danga Utama, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor Bahru
Tel: +60 7-595 2345
Source: Shopee
With over 30,000 customers under its belt (to date), Teck Seng claims to offer the "best value furniture in town (Malaysia-Singapore). Priding itself in stylish, contemporary pieces for homeowners across generations, you’ll be spoiled for choice whether it’s furniture for the living or dining room.
They also provide delivery to Singapore islandwide with free installation, but charges differ based on the number of purchased items.
Do note, however, that they do not offer disposal services. They also charge an extra SGD20 per item for building levels with no lift access.
Address: 32-38, Jalan Utama 45, Mutiara Rini, 81300 Skudai, Johor
Tel: +60 07-558 1651
This article was originally published on 5 Mar 2020 and last updated on 7 Jun 2022. Any information in this article is accurate as at time of writing.